Red Mosque, 15th-century mosque in Berat Castle, Albania.
The Red Mosque is a 15th-century mosque built within Berat Castle, constructed from red bricks and limestone. Its wooden roof is supported by these red brick and limestone elements, defining its simple yet solid structure.
The mosque was built shortly after the Ottoman conquest of Berat in 1417 and first appears in written records from 1431 to 1432. This early documentation marks it as among the oldest Islamic structures established in the region following the conquest.
The building served communities for worship while also welcoming travelers and soldiers seeking shelter. It reveals how a mosque within castle walls adapted to serve multiple purposes and different groups of people.
Visitors can climb a narrow circular staircase inside the minaret to reach the top and enjoy views over the castle and surrounding city. The tight spiral stairs require some physical comfort and a head for heights to complete this ascent.
The minaret is positioned unusually to the left of the entrance rather than in the typical central location. Its upper section features a distinctive cylindrical shape that sets it apart from other structures of the period.
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